Benathi Nightsong slipped off the violet chocobo she called mount and friend. A brief ruffling of feathers on the beast's neck, then Bena whispered. The Chocobo gave off a call in response before running off to the shallow waters. Perhaps for a snack.

Asher Rukoth pointed towards his right. "There be some little 'kitties' o'er that way though. So whoever's the least scary ah us best get tah checkin it out...Ah nominate Barry. He seems the cuddly sort."

Dominique La'fleur: "I ain't seen any amount of fish that could gobble up whatever left that much." She pointed towards the pools of blood.

Barengar Armsbreaker blinked at Adun's words before simply setting them aside for the time being and shifting his attention to Erioch, "I'll be doin' m'best not ta."

Adun Blackblade: "Good."

Erioch Koren looked over to Soks as she began to move towards the building, his footsteps falling in behind the Au Ra. "Well don't jus' get to stompin' o'er there without...shite."

Dominique La'fleur crossed her arms under her chest, not moving from her position as narrowed eyes continued to look around the area.

Tarasa Blaetwyn stepped up to Neeka "Cute shirt."

A Lalafell pulls herself around a small Highlander child as much as she is able to seemingly shield the infant from the approaching Blades. Panic rides wild in her eyes, breath heaving quickened pants as she attempts to scurry deeper into her hiding spot. Any attempt to speak with the woman simply sees her stammering back while looking away. “P…please I d-d-don’t know anything. Just let us go, take whatever you want, just let us go.”

Sokhatai Mol waved him off, eyes still locked on the bush. "If it was dangerous I would have sent the loud lancer." Sokha grumbled, leaning forward and peering into the bushes. "It's alright."

Adun Blackblade wandered up behind Neeka and rested his chin on her shoulder.

Asher Rukoth: "Sahagin could'a just diced the folk up afore nommin’ on them," he offered. "Unless ah course they decided that stick dem octopus things atop their 'eads..."

Dominique La'fleur raised an eyebrow as her gaze flicked to Tara, a grin tugging at her lips. "Aye, fashionable and dangerous." she shrugged the shoulder adorning several metal spikes.

Dominique La'fleur looked over her shoulder at Adun, a hand reaching up to pat his head. "How does that eyesoar of whatever it is around your waist not get in your way?" She snickered.

The lalafell lets out a scream as Sokhatai speaks out, her whole frame curling in on itself as she devolves to open weeping. "No...no we don't have t-t-the c-carriage! Don't eat us!"

Sokhatai Mol slumped, sighing and falling back as she shot a glare at Erioch. "... This isn't your fault but I'm blaming you. Maybe someone that's... more /familiar/ in appearance should try to console them."

Barengar Armsbreaker folds his arms over his chest, his gaze falling upon the the panicked lalafell and Sokhatai, glancing between the two. The man blinked the former cried out in terror, his posture going rigid.

Adun Blackblade: "By being nearly fifty and having everything but the kitchen sink thrown at me to overcome in battle. Also, it'll fall off it it's too much." He barely paid any mind to Socks terrifying the lalafell.

Erioch Koren takes a step back from Sokhatai, his teeth drawing against each other. "Shite, easy there...goin' in baring your fangs like some dragon wantin' a swivin' snack at the pair o' 'em."

Asher Rukoth pursed his lips together and sighed. "Dis is why ah nominated Barry. He's friendly lookin..." Unable to continue jest with straight face, he chuckled softly and approached the terrified duo in front of Soks. Slamming spear point down into earth, he held hands up as a sign of non-aggression. "Everythin's all right missy. We're 'ere tah 'elp."

Benathi Nightsong 's eyes flick over to the bush, giving off an internal sigh, "Hey, hey, no one here's gonna eat ya."

Barengar Armsbreaker snorts.

Tarasa Blaetwyn walks up, grunts a little then turns around. "Not good with children."

Sokhatai Mol returned to Adun's side with a scowl, folding her arms with a huff. "... this is why I prefer animals to people."

The small woman looked up to those approaching before scooting further away from Soks, the baby cradled in her arms. A hard swallow gives way to the woman's high voice barely squeaking out towards Asher and Benathi. "Y...you're here to help? Thank the Twleve, praise the Twelve! Please, help the child..."

Adun Blackblade grinned at Socks.

Erioch Koren shot a wide, toothy grin to Sokhatai. "Well from how that was goin' I'm guessin' other people prefer you dealin' with animals too."

Dominique La'fleur seemed to also pay no mind to the confrontation, instead just letting out a sigh while looking back at Adun.  "Still, you could do with some fashion advice." She wrinkled her nose.

Adun Blackblade: "Will you dress me?"

Dominique La'fleur: "And give the priestess another reason to try and off me with those bitchy eyes of hers?"

Adun Blackblade: "I said dress, not undress. Has she been misbehaving? Should I speak to her?"

Asher Rukoth slipped on confident smile and dipped his chin, nodding. "Aye, we're 'at's exactly right." Approaching the Lala, he knelt down and looked over the child before fixing gaze on the caretaker. "Ye've done a mighty fine job lass, makin sure this lil one was safe. Best ye be 'oldin on'tah 'im still though...Can ye tell us what 'appened?"

Erioch Koren moved forward into the settlement just a touch, his form kneeling down next to a spot of crimson-stained ground. "Huh...there's ain' any bodies 'round here."

Sokhatai Mol: "Don't worry, you'll find some chocobo leavings in the bar when I come back." Sokha called back to Erioch with a frown, watching Asher and the children. "There's plenty."

Dominique La'fleur rolled her eyes. "I don't need a white knight to take care of me Adun. I ain't seen the woman in a while, best be keepin' it that way 'till the storm is over."

Adun Blackblade: "That's gonna be a long storm."

Benathi Nightsong nodded, remaining behind and offset to the left of Asher, casting her eyes into the small harbor town, giving a slight frown before returning to the Lalafell. She remained quiet, since Asher had already spoken.

Dominique La'fleur: "Oh I know."

The woman finally stood, a few sniffles giving way to more confident words. "I..don't know. We were all going about our day when these fish...men...things attacked. They started just..." She shudders before bouncing the infant slightly in her arms. "...eating everything they could. It was chaos so I took the child and hid. Gods, they chased so many down and took them back into the water..." To the lalafell's credit, she manages to hold back the tears any further.

"Can...can we leave now? Is it safe back that way? I think we can make it to Horizon..."

Barengar Armsbreaker moves up toward Erioch, noting that Asher and Benathi seemed to have the lalafellin woman under control. His eyes swept over the same patch of crimson that Erioch did, grumbling quietly to the man, "Thinkin' they took th' bodies?"

Adun Blackblade grunted softly and straightened up. "So, do we get to kill things now?"

Dominique La'fleur: "Gotta find'em first to kill'em"

Benathi Nightsong nodded, "I think we've got a good idea what's happened. If he's done here," she nodded in Asher's direction, "I've got a chocobo y'can ride to Horizon."

Sokhatai Mol cocked her head to the side, eyes narrowing. "I don't think they took anything. Where are the drag marks? All I've seen are puddles."

Dominique La'fleur: "We could all have ourselves a little fishin' party at the docks to bait'em out? If they're still even near here."

Erioch Koren righted himself, breath huffing from his lungs as he drew the handaxe from his side. "I ain' knowin' what they did with 'em, but they ain' here now. Not matterin' much, anyroads, job is stayin' the same whether folk were here or not, aye?"

Adun Blackblade: "Is it sahagin? Should probably check the water."

Asher Rukoth pressed tongue to tooth, no longer all that enthused. Not even with how his prediction was right. Glancing back over his shoulder to Bena, he rubbed chin for a moment and then fixed attention back on the woman and child. "Aye, ah think it be safe...but first off, when ye were runnin did'ja see any ah the fish-folsk go any other way aside from the shore?"

She shook her head as she scrambled atop the chocobo, the child nestled against her chest. "They took everything back down into the water, by the docks. You're going to fight them? B...be careful." WIth another nod the Lalafell turned the chocobo around and began to make her way back towards Horizon, happy to be free from whatever befell the settlement.

Courrier bore the weight of the Lalafell and the infant with apparent ease, "To Horizon with you," Bena murmured to the beast before she left, knowing the destination.

Dominique La'fleur tapped her foot impatiently, a scowl washing over her features.

Erioch Koren grinned wide as he looked back to Adun. "Hells, Grumbles...didn' know you were so into swimmin'. If you're that anxious you're more'n welcome to be leadin' the charge, I ain' lookin' forward to takin' a dip in the ocean anytime soon."

Adun Blackblade: "The hell's got you so cranky, Neeka?"

Asher Rukoth: "Dun you worry bout 'at, we're professionals aft'all." Giving the woman a reassuring smile, he stood and waved them on before moving to claim spear and return to group. "So," he said to the lot. "Fishies ate everyone an most like ther by the docks...Ah'm thinkin we should get Bena an Tara up ontah the buildin's fer superiority in battle."

Dominique La'fleur 's eyes shot daggers towards Adun as her gaze snapped to him. "I'm not cranky." She replied firmly before stomping off towards the docks, clearly ignoring Asher's tactics.

Adun Blackblade follows!

Benathi Nightsong: "Or just... walk."

Asher Rukoth: "Yep. Ther we go, nevermind me." Rolling his eyes, he followed after with a bemused sigh.

Erioch Koren did a double take as Adun and Neeka started walking off, his shoulders rising in a shrug. "Y'know, one o' these suns we'll actually get to usin' some kind o' tactics with this bunch." Rough laughter fell from the man as he followed the three.

Sokhatai Mol: "Tactics? What's that?"

As the group approaches the docks, the reason for the scent becomes more and more evident, several discarded, half-eaten carcasses of all types are washed upon the shore and bumping against the sides of the docks. Before one would have time to comment on the sorry state of the pier, several large pools of bubbles spring to the surface of the water on either side. Within a single beat, a Sahagin leaps out from the ocean and land heavily upon the docks.->

The creatures appear as though nightmarish fiction alone could conceive them, patches of swollen and grotesque skin and muscle spread all over their figures in various places. Each of their fingers are elongated into wickedly curved claws, their mouths too wide to close fully and full of teeth that would only puncture their lips were they to close. Guttural howls tear from their throats as they charge the Blades, their eyes devoid of thought beyond hunger.->

Asher Rukoth: "Ah d'no. Learned bout em in Ishgard but some'ow ah ne'er quite seen em used afore...Rare as Black Mages these days apparently."

Benathi Nightsong: "That's not a Sahagin."

Tarasa Blaetwyn: "Secrecy is a black mages best weapon."

From below the docks, several long, clawed Sahagin hands burst up to tear and drag Erioch, Neeka, Adun, and Barry into the water. The three creatures that had leapt aboard the pier rushing Asher, Benathi, and Tarasa before attempting to grab and bite them as though to eat them raw. Similarly, one more mutated beastman emerges from the shore, its body bent down on all fours as it spins about in a frenzy before charging Sokhatai.

Adun Blackblade groaned softly as he saw the mutant whatevers. Well, he assumed they were mutant because he'd never seen them before. As one approached him, he fell right side dropping back, aether swirling around him as he aspected. Charging forward, he met the creature half way, throwing two strikes right at its face right off the bat.

Neeka’s gaze snapped towards the pair of claws bursting up from the docks, a vicious snarl washing over her features. The dragoon was in the air with a jump before the beast could latch on. A hand reached to her back, unstrapping her lance and angling it downwards. Her descent came with the spear driving into the creature’s arm.

Asher Rukoth cocked his head to the side, a stupid, incredulous laugh escaping parted lips. "Well they look /reaaaal/ friendly," he managed. Continuing to laugh, he unholstered gun belted to his side and took quick aim. A crack followed as the bullet discharged into the beast charging him, entering and exiting scaled shoulder in spray of blood.

Tara quickly noticed the creatures leap out of the water. She quickly placed a hand on the ground and left ember that quickly began to grow in size before riding the aether out of the way as the Creature ran into the now decently sized ball of fire that erupted on impact to soak it in flames.

Sokhatai Mol had been too busy watching the others get ambushed on the docks to pay much attention to the one hellbent on charging her down. She managed to scramble away just in time, narrowly ducking under the charge but not being much help to anyone.

Bena drew her bow from her back as they approached the docks. She drew an arrow and pulled back as the mutated Sahagin began to lunge at them. The one that charged her didn't get a chance to bite; Bena brought a booted leg forward and kicked the thing roughly in the chest, sending it tumbling back down the stairs. Benathi loosed her arrow at the downed Sahagin, the projectile finding purchase in the corrupted beastman's stomach.

Barengar Armsbreaker blinked as the creature burst up onto the dock, blinking several times at its misshapen body. There was something foul at work here. He didn't know what it what but he knew he didn't like it. Barengar failed, however, to quickly react to the hands that burst up through the docks. He managed to avoid getting restrained by the beast's grip, but still goes falling into the water below as the ground he stood upon gave way.

As the claws burst up from beneath Erioch the man can only curse, half of the word muffled as he is sent beneath the waves. “Shi-Mmflg!” Claws scrape along the man’s coat, digging through the fabric to take a chunk out from above his ribs. (Take 2 damage.)

Those pulled under by the Sahagin would feel claws and teeth ripping and tearing all about them, though not necessarily at the Blades. It would seem as though some sort of pure feeding frenzy was going on beneath the waves, beastmen attacking each other for the newly-found food as often as they were trying to devour the Blades. Those without a Mythril Snack reached up from the water to once more try and pull Neeka and Adun beneath.

Back upon solid ground, the creatures attacking Tarasa and Asher lunged forward, oddly-muscled shoulders attempting to knock the two prone before leaping atop them and dragging them towards the pier. The remaining Sahagin all continued their wild assault against Benathi and Sokhatai, long arms trying to wrap them against their forms before blade-like teeth sank deep into their flesh. ->

From the end of the pier, a giant splash of blood-soaked sea sprayed upwards, a massive, scaled arm as big as a full grown Roegadyn man reaching out from the depths to try and grip upon the fragmented dock. The boards of the pier give way under the strain, the arm once more plummeting into the sea before a second attempts the same with more success.

Adun was caught off guard by yet another creature coming to drag him under water. As the gross claw things tore through his shirt and into his skin, he growled low and took the opportunity to open a chakra before being dragged under the water.

The dragoon’s gaze snapped to Adun, eye’s going wide as he was pulled from the dock and dragged under. The distraction was enough for a clawed hand to wrap around her boots and pull the redhead under. The metal of her greaves now shattered as she kicked and flailed violently under the sea, trying to get her bearings and figure out her next move. (Armor gone. HP - 5/5)

clicked his tongue and frowned having expected the stopping power to be enough to at least stumble the creature. Turning to the side and taking a half step back, he avoided tackle and watched the too close mutated-fishy rush by, unable to deliver proper counter attack and unwilling to overextend himself in the attempt.  (Untouched)

Tarasa eyed the mutant with odd fascination as it soaked the fireball and turned to lunge at her. "Interesting." She was focused on her own battle as she flung a tumultuous ball of lightning at the creature to zap it before it reached her causing it to go rigid then fall dead at her feet.

Sokhatai scrambled past once more, the benefit of being tiny and the burst of adrenaline letting her evade the snatching beastman as it tried to pull her towards the water. The crystal at her side sparked to life, drawn out by Sokha's needs before sending the rush of healing aether towards the smart-arsed barman that probably didn't deserve it. ((Erioch healed +2))

Bena wasn't prepared for how quickly the Sahagin would recover and lunge back to her.  The Sahagin got his claws around the Ishgardian, using his weight to actually pick up the woman, his grip causing her to drop her bow. He tried to take a bite out of her as he hauled her down to the docks. Thankfully, he just crunched the leather and metal that made up Bena's left shoulderpad, ripping it off from her and spitting it into the water as the Midlander struggled to get free.

The Armsbreaker thrashed and struggled against his attacker's attempts to pull him deeper into the darker regions of the crimson stained waters. His jaw clenched and exercised as much force as he had at his disposal to smash the head of the sahagin that was grappling him. Managing to daze the creature just enough to free himself from the grasp, Barry quickly grabbed from one piece of debris to the next in an attempt to find a way out of the water in the time that he had bought himself.

Erioch twists and turns beneath the waves, his head just breaking the surface long enough to draw in a deep breath before he is tugged underneath the waves once more. One of the mutated creatures sinks its teeth into his shoulder as he is held down, the Highlander reaching upwards to try and pry the creature loose before once more making a break for the surface. A muffled thanks is spoken out to Sokhatai as his wounds begin to close.

The Sahagin slashing its claws at Tara falls flat, it’s body heaving its last before it lies fully still. Meanwhile the same creature that had dragged Benathi to the docks now worked to bring the woman beneath the ocean, teeth trying to find a firm hold. The monster on all fours wheels away from Sokhatai and instead opts to charge Asher, leaping into the air with a howl. Thankfully, Sokhatai is left alone, the other Sahagin occupied.  ->

Beneath the waves the feeding frenzy continues, more delicious Mythril Morsels being dragged below for the beings to try and tear apart. With a deep, grinding groan the creature at the far end of the docks final manages to pull itself up out of the water, the whole of him swollen and bloated with whatever was altering the beastmen. Its right arm was weighed down by an anchor and chain, the metal lodged in its twisted flesh.

Adun held his breath as he was under water. Like it was a match of goddamn blitz ball, he used the momentum of the creature pulling him under and turned underwater so homehow kick it and swim up to the surface. As he beached the waters, he took in a deep breath and clawed at the docks, pulling himself up onto the side.

Neeka was determined to not lose her weapon, struggling under the water to get the lance strapped into the holster on her back. Doing so, she didn’t notice one of the creatures behind her wanting to make the dragoon lunch. A scream tore from her lips as grotesque teeth tore into her unarmored shoulder, causing a stream of bubbles to rise towards the surface.

Asher Rukoth bared teeth in vicious grin, eyes alight with the mistake just made by the beastie. Opting to lower pistol, he adopted throwing stance, lined up his polearm with the incoming foe, reared back his arm and loosed; spear point sliding easily through soft belly to appear out the other side of its back along with a good portion of metal haft. When it hit the pier with boneless crack, the rest of the weapon cleared for Asher to claim it again.

Tara bent over and poked the dead monster with the tip of her staff a few times to make sure it was indeed dead before standing up and taking a moment to survey all her co workers now in the water before dropping down some ley lines in prep for the large one coming down the way. "A rather large one is on the way Asher."

Sokhatai Mol let go of the breath she'd been holding, the creature distracted by some other member of the party. She darted down the docks, skidding to a halt and dropping to her knees and trying to pull Erioch out of the water despite the gnashing and thrashing of the monster below.

Bena continued to be an unwilling bit of prey in the Sahagin's grip. She wasn't trying to actually break free now, though - she knew she wasn't physically strong enough to pull that off. She writhed and got her right arm free. She yanked an arrow from her quiver, spinning it around in her fingers before bringing it down into the Sahagin's eye. It howled, throwing Bena away and stumbling back. It fell into a hole one of its fellows made, ending up in the water. Its previous wounds saturated the water, and it was consumed by its frenzied fellows.

Barengar, with no help from the gnashing teeth and swiping claws of the misshapen beasts that frenzied in the water, managed to pull himself up and out of the water. To say that he was glad to be out of the water was an understatement. With a quick roll of his left shoulder he finally pulled his weapon proper free from its place on his back as well as the throwing axe at his side, turning his attention to the massive creature at the fore. He pulled arm back and let it fly at the creature, aiming for whatever appeared to be its face.

Erioch would have let out a sigh of relief at Sokhatai's arm reaching down for him had ocean not threatened to fill his lungs should he do so. Her arm was taken and used to pull the Highlander up and onto the docks, sea-water and blood dripping from his frame as one of the claws raked down his calf. "Thanks, darl-GAH! BASTARD FISH SHITE!" He kicked wildly at the water, a myriad of curses tearing from his throat.

The hulking Sahagin leans backward and lets loose an ear-splitting howl as it finally seems to notice the scent of blood and the sound of battle. It begins a lumbering, crashing charge towards the group both upon the docks and the shore, its eyes swollen shut by whatever is mutating the beast men. The arm with the chain embedded into it swings wide, the anchor sweeping across all those on the shore as it tries to trample those still on the pier. ->

Beneath the waves Neeka has full view of the mad torrent of claws and teeth tearing and biting not only at her but also the two remaining Sahagin each vying for the tasty Neeka-snack.

Adun started charging in the same direction as the creature. As it reeled its anchor to swing, he swung behind it, catching on the balls of his left foot. He then rotated and threw an aspected hook kick at its back, heel sinking into it hard and bursting with fire aether on contact.

Wisps of blue aether swirled around Neeka as she was quickly running out of air, the hand which had sheathed her lance now reaching for a blade kept on her belt. The metal shoved into the creature’s mouth as it attempted another bite before pulled back with as much force as possible under the water. The dragoon frantically looked at her surroundings, finding a rotten wooden pillar to launch herself off of after bursting from the waves, she landed on her feet back on the docks with an extremely pissed off expression.

Asher snapped his attention to the lumbering monstrosity Tarasa warned him up, just in time for eyes to widen and catch sight of the anchor tossed their way. "Fuckin 'el---Shit!" Caught by the hook as it swung by, rust metal crackin against tempered plate, he found himself unbalanced and falling forward to land upon roughly upon knees, held up only by having thrust his arm forward to catch himself.

Tara watched the large creature take a swing and braced herself for the impact that never came. She jumped back a little and fell onto her ass as Eroich took the blow for her and was hurled back down onto the docks. "Eroich!" She somewhat screamed out as she quickly sat back up and began charging a spell.

Sokhatai took a moment to breath for a moment, before she was thrown unceremoniously into the water she'd just pulled her companion out of. She surfaced instantly, sputtering and coughing through the water in her lungs and turning to try and catch sight of Neeka. The crystal shook a moment, brightening before sending a healing waves towards the woman she'd been looking towards.

Benathi blinked as the Sahagin roared, "That's a mighty mother-" She turned and scrambled up the stairs, scooping up her bow and then taking a few more steps away, turning as she took a moment to regain control her of her breathing. Thankfully, the anchor swung harmlessly behind her.

Barengar takes a few steps backward as the massive creature began to press itself forward upon the dock. The last place Barengar wanted to be when fighting an oversized monstrosity was on a damaged, wooden dock perched over a swarm of veritable piranha's. He was glad that he had as the monstrosity’s wide sweep narrowly missed him, though it offered him an opening. The man lunged forward and sank his axehead into the thigh of the lumbering beast.

Erioch’s head whipped around just in time to see the large Sahagin charging towards the group, his body pushing upwards and rushing away from the creature. Just as the anchor swung towards those on the shore, the Highlander pushed himself between Tarasa and the flying metal, the force of the blow sending him toppling back down to the pier. With a small groan the man stood and shook his head, axe at the ready. (5/8 2 armor)

Adun kept light on his feet, making sure to get out of the way of any sort of retaliation the creature made to being attacked. He drove his fist into it once more.

Neeka was greeted to the sight of the hideous monstrosity the Blade’s now found themselves dealing with after she’d landed back on the docks. A groan escaped her lips as she took only a moment to scan the surrounding chaos. She immediately launched the blade in her hand towards the creature, aiming for one of its eyes.

Asher Rukoth looked up at the vile noise that preceded the display of nothing that could be good. Spear and pistol abandoned to the sides, he threw up arms to shield face in time for the acid to spray down against him. What started as a growl at onset of pain that would have transformed into something more if not for the planks cracking and dissolving beneath him to send him plummeting into blue depths.

Tara quickly extended both her arms forward with palms up while her feet took a bracing stance on the wood dock. She quickly muttered a few odd sounding words as a barrier of aether quickly punched forward to become a shield for the incoming goop. A few seconds after the goop began to eat away at the magical barrier an almost Sokh sized icicle shot through what was left of the barrier  to nail the creature in the right shoulder and leave the Roe woman panting for breath.

Sokhatai Mol scrambled out of the water, blindly grabbing at whoever it was pulling her up. She was soaked, and pissed now, latching on to whoever it was and returning the favor with healing. ((Erioch +1)

Bena took a breath and drew her bow back.... Shit, this is a bad position. She saw the giant spit out its acid, and decided she didn't like that that much. She moved to get a clearer shot on the creature, unobstructed by the dock.

Barengar held up the broadside of his axe to his fore, using it as a makeshift shield from the lashing bits of claw and iron that whirled about in front of him. His teeth grit as his jaw clenched, whether the storm before channeling the force behind one of the blows to the weapon into a heavy swing. He was once more aiming for the same section of leg that he had struck before; hacking away (Deal 1 damage).

Erioch dove low as the beast began to spin, his right arm diving between the boards to try and fish for Soks collar. Upon finding purchase, the bartender hauled the Au Ra upwards and free of the ocean, sitting her upon the dock just as he saw Asher fall beneath the waves. "Gods-dammit...really?" (6/8 2 armor)

Sensing the blows landing upon it from all sides, the large beast hunkered down and did its best impression of a dragoon by leaping into the air. Though not nearly able to soar as high as Ishgard's finest, the heavily mutated Sahagin did manage to make it fully ashore, it's bulk crashing down on Benathi and Tarasa before its throat swelled once more. A solid line of red digestive fluid flew from the monster's maw, eroding the dock and any of the Blades standing atop the pier in turn. ->

Beneath the waves, Asher's new swimming partner was eager to become closer to the dragoon and sought to give the man a giant kiss. With teeth. Lots of teeth. It's biting your face.

Adun just kept wailing on it, his strikes lighting up with aether aspected fire each time they connected. Besides going in the water, he's seemed quite apt at staying out of any sort of danger.

The dragoon seemed almost offended at the way the creature took off, eyes narrowing with a growl. A hand moved to pull the spear off her back once more now that she was on land, aether swirling around her legs. She took off skyward, as if to show that monstrosity how it’s -actually- done. With the beast in her sights and it distracted with the other members, Neeka crashed down onto its back, driving her lance in as far as she could.

Asher Rukoth's eyes stung as salt water invaded, though with vision still wide he saw the beastie coming. And as he was fast becoming a one woman guy, he did the only thing appropriate and slammed his fist forward to catch it, only instead of simple punch he plunged arm down its throat to grab hold of vital and rip it free. Blood spread fast in the water around him as he left the floating carcass behind then to breach surface. Grabbing ledge, he hoisted himself up to glare at the monstrosity, hair plastered to face now and armor no longer hissing from acid.

Tarasa went wide eyed for a moment as the hulking creature lept her way. She once again called on the aether for a quick escape as she almost seemed to teleport out of harm's way while leaving another one of her ember bombs that would explode as the creature landed soaking it in flames that thankfully didn't hurt Neeka that was on its back.

Sokhatai Mol was clinging to Erioch still, trying to get her bearing when some of the cast-off acid flew her way. It only made her cling tighter, eyes screwed tighter as she unconsciously directed her own healing energies inward. It was not a pleasant day for her, it seemed.

What was this thing's deal? It tried to land on Benathi! She rolled further inland so that she wouldn't become an Ishgardian flapjack. She came up at a crouch, before tapping an icy blue rune on her bow. Aether saturated her arrowhead before she sent it soaring. The arrow lodged itself into the Sahagin's eye as it thrashed, and the aether that she had channeled burst. Several growths of ice explode from the right side of the Sahagin's face, dripping its mutated blood, whatever color that might be. Combined with Tarasa's bomb, it was probably a very frightening display.

Barengar attempted to pull himself away from the line of caustic fluid that was being poured upon the dock but had no such luck. Large globs of the digestive substance splatter upon his right arm, seeping into some of the rings of his armor. It made short work of the padding below and began to burn upon his skin. The Ala Mhigan growled and lashed his arm out several times in a vain attempt to rid himself of the fluid. With a shake of his head he pulled himself together and followed

Erioch begins to twist and turn as the boards beneath him begin to melt away, somehow surprisingly spared from the acid spat at the Blades. With his hand still fast on Sokhatai's collar, and the Au Ra still clinging to him, it was something of a miracle that the man avoided the glob of spittle raining down upon them. Seeing Sokhatai was not so lucky in avoiding the fluid, the Highlander held blinked for a moment before dunking the Xaela beneath the water to wash off the spume. "There. All clean."

The beast let loose another howl, one that slowly died into nothing more than a whimper as it collapsed in a heap upon the ground. Silence hung over the pier as the waves stilled, the pier creaking and groaning under all the strain it had endured.

"I'm going home now. Neeka, stop being cranky." And with that, Adun and his see through shirt were off.

Sokhatai Mol looked up the moment before she was dunked, spluttering and choking once more on the water she found herself in once more. "So... much..." Sokha coughed, clearing her throat. "Chocobo shite is going into the bar." She was hissing, her silver eyes brightening with fury

Benathi Nightsong took a few breaths, shaking her right hand for some reason. She moved her bow to her back. She rubbed her right wrist as she approached the Blades. "No one's -too- hurt, yeah?"

Tarasa Blaetwyn approached the now dead pile of monster and took a knee while a gloved hand slowly rubbed over the creature's arm. "Quite a fascinating creature." She pulled out a small satchel and laid it out on the ground revealing a few bottles and syringes. She quickly jammed one of the needles deep into the creature and began extracting fluid.

Asher Rukoth ground teeth briefly before he stood upright and brushed hands down arms and shook himself as dry as he could. Working jaw, he already knew the amount of work that had to go into armor and wasn't at all happy...along with the fact that he now needed a trim from where acid caught hair. Moving around the beast, he reclaimed weapons and strode of the flight of stairs to leave. "Makes 'ate the deep sea even more," he said off hand to Tarasa. "An wonder what the fuck else be lurkin down there, an what drove em to frenzy."

Erioch grinned down to the woman, shoulder and calf still dripping crimson to mix with the ocean water flowing from the man. "Hey now, I was jus' aimin' to be washin' all that shite off ya, darlin'. You're welcome." Laughter sounded out from the man as he set the Au Ra down upon the docks. "All jestin' aside, you doin' alright? Everythin' in its proper place an' whatnot?"

Dominique La'fleur hopped off of the creature, taking her weapon with quite the disgusting sound as it came out from the back.  She wrinkled her nose upon noticing Tara with the needles.

Barengar slowly eased his stance as it became clear to him that the creature wasn't going to be lashing out or puking up vile gunk on anyone any further. His attention was quickly pulled to the burning on his arm. He quickly flicked his eyes around for sources of water that were -not- the sea that was full of sahagin.

Tarasa Blaetwyn: "This looks more manmade to me than anything natural, which has peaked my curiosity. Something warped these creatures into what they are now."

Tarasa Blaetwyn filled a syringe and pushed the foul liquid into a vial before grabbing another needle and repeating the process where the spine should be.

Benathi Nightsong flexed the fingers of her right hand before seeming satisfied that her hand was intact. She placed her right hand on her hip, eying the creature, wrinkling her nose at Tarasa's work, before looking to Asher and Neeka, "You guys are okay?"

Sokhatai Mol frowned at him, though her eyes seemed less irritated as she quickly began shaking off the excess water. "Just my wounded pride. But that heals with time."

Dominique La'fleur took a few steps back away from the process while holstering her weapon and offering Benathi a nod.

Tarasa Blaetwyn: "Looks like this was a Sahagin at one point, i'll have to do some more tests back at my study to be sure however."

Asher Rukoth grunted. "Aye, ah'm just fine." Stabbing spear into the dirt, he reached up to free braid and shook fingers through his hair, just barely holding onto the cloth strip that had held it as such moments ago. "Lucky too at the fucker sent me in'tah the water though ah din't fancy gettin wet like 'at."

Barengar Armsbreaker found no alternative that met his criteria, unfortunately and simply began to reach for his waterskin, emptying all that remained within it upon his right arm in an attempt to wash away the caustic fluids.

Erioch Koren couldn't stop himself from ruffling the Au Ra's hair as he began to move up to stairs. "C'mon, kid, I've found that drinkin' heals all manner o' wounded pride, eh?" He stopped before the rest of the Blades examining the beast. "I'm goin' to collect the reward, everyone livin', aye?"

Benathi Nightsong: "As far as I can tell, we're all still in one piece."

Asher Rukoth: "How much was the payout for this shite anyways?"

Dominique La'fleur let out a sigh "Does it matter? It's never enough for the fucked up shite we have to deal with." She waved a hand in the air dismissively before turning on her heel to walk off.

Erioch Koren raised an eyebrow to Asher as he began to make his way back towards civilization. "Enough that we got to takin' the job in the first place. Odile'll get your pay to you 'fore long I'm sure."

Tarasa Blaetwyn finished with her syringe work and began to repack her things. "I'll have to hire someone to bring one of the smaller ones back, I doubt anyone will bother these though."

Asher Rukoth rolled his eyes and loosed scoff. Glancing to Tarasa then, he pursed lips and moved over to one of the less mangled corpses and picked it up to toss over his shoulder. "Where d'ya want it?"

Erioch Koren looked back to Tarasa. "You wantin' to head into town with me then? I ain' lookin' to make any o' you lot haul one o' those swivin' Sahagin back on your own."

Erioch Koren: "Or hells, that'll get to workin' too. Much obliged, Asher."

Barengar Armsbreaker moved once he'd managed to clean himself of enough of the fluids, he made his way up to briefly glance over the fallen beast. Beyond the bizarre nature of its state, Barengar seemed to find it of little real interest.

Benathi Nightsong: "I'd offer, but... I'm not big enough to carry one, and Courier doesn't like the smell of 'em."

Tarasa Blaetwyn blinked as Asher hefted the creature. "Oh, well back at my study at the Company Hall should suffice."

Dominique La'fleur: "Not to worry, the Knight is always happy to oblige." She muttered before walking off out of sight of the group.

Sokhatai Mol waved a hand. "I'll be back in the stables, if anyone wants more patching up. The magical sort, or bandages."

Asher Rukoth wrinkled his nose some at the smell but otherwise looked to be fine with the creature's weight. Giving a nod to Tara, he set off. "Then ah'll be droppin it off there..." Narrowing his eyes, he stared at Neeka and clenched jaw, confused.

Erioch Koren looked over his now-ruined coat, breath huffing out from his lungs. "Might get to takin' you up on that, Sokhatai, after I'm findin' some tailor to be patchin' up this coat."

Sokhatai Mol nodded. "You'll find me in the stables."

Barengar Armsbreaker grunted stiffly before pulling his gaze away from the fallen beast. He tipped his head toward the departing members of the company before preparing to do the same himself. He'd had enough for the day.

Asher Rukoth ( @theash-hatrukoth ): "And Adun, if you don't think we're up to it then by all means-" he gestured to the stairs. "Leave."

Adun Blackblade ( @domriblackblade ): "Okay."

Adun Blackblade looked back to Ave.

Barengar Armsbreaker ( @autochthonousone ) makes his way down the stairway, looking mildly hurried once we reaches the bottom. He glances about to those present before bobbing his head silently to the crowd and moving in to listen.

Dominique La'fleur ( @neekaxiv ) nodded towards Kiera "Tech without havin' to resort to some scummy smuggler." Her words trailed off at Asher continued on, letting out a sigh. "It's going to be one hells of a fight." She muttered under her breath.

Avelyn Firestone ( @the-mage-and-the-monk ) nodded. "I will don't worry." Ave said and waved her papers idly in a way to show them off. "As I said, still-" Ave said and looked over to Asher, squinting at him. Shrugging, she then continued talking with a hushed voice. "Got this ta sort out anyhow."

Adun Blackblade nodded softly. "Don't mind him. He has no idea what I'm talking about and butts in anyway. But yes, you should stay to be safe."

Asher Rukoth returned to looking at everyone else, unperturbed by Adun. "We've only one job in this so that'll make this easier. Stop the artillery and then signal the transports with flareguns which each of us will be given."

Erioch Koren ( @erioch​ ) moved forward, his right foot stepping high to push him up and over the bar in a single step as he emptied his glass of water in a long drink. The tumbler was left resting atop the table as he passed by it, both of his hands reaching up to grip his coat. "So go there, break some Garlean shite, an' get to fleein' after we've done so?"

Asher Rukoth: "More like hunker down, but aye. That's the gist of it," he replied with a nod.

Asher Rukoth: "Anything else on the mind," he asked the group.

Adun Blackblade looked back. "And what of the GC's when we have secured it. Or do you mean to keep it for this company?"

Barengar Armsbreaker pressed his lips into a thin line, brow furrowing as he attempted to piece together what it was that they were being asked to do. He did so hate arriving on the scene late.

Asher Rukoth: "The outpost remains in the hands of Ishgard, as they're the ones that will be doing the majority of the bleeding."

Adun Blackblade: "Very well."

Iyrnswys Glazfarrwyn ( @alicienacorvin ) brushes her hand over Kiera's hair before disentangling herself from her wife. "Be safe, my love."

Dominique La'fleur: "Least Ishgard has the wealth to pay well." She muttered, getting to her feet and placing her empty glass back on the bartop.

Erioch Koren: "All soundin' more'n fine to me, ain' doin' this for territory anyroads. I'm goin' to grab my shite an' get ready for all this." Erioch nodded as me began to move up the stairs, lips pursing before a soft whistle began to sing out from the man.

Avelyn Firestone: "Yeah. I can't go. Go Resistance shite ta take care off, so I be leaving soon enough again." Ave said as she waved a heap of papers towards Asher's direction. "But I be sure you can handle it all without me."

Kiera Hawkeye ( @the-hawkeyes​ ) put on her mask, adjusting it as she listened.

Dominique La'fleur 's lips twitched, unable to stop a smirk at Avelyns words, luckily she was turned around away from the group.

Asher Rukoth: "Oh, they certainly do. This makes the pay for acquiring that stupid ass magic chest and the killing of that Lala look like chump change." Arching his brow at Ave, he then gave brief nod. "Good luck with that."

Adun Blackblade looked back to Ave, lips pulled into a small, almost guilty frown. Though, he remained silent.

Asher Rukoth: "Now, for those of you who want in you've the day to prepare like I've said and we meet at the docks come morning tomorrow."

Avelyn Firestone: "If there be anything going wrong, just scream over the pearl. I got a heap of healers on a Linkpearl."

Shana Deftarm ( @the-worst-mercenaries ) frowned, watching Adun and Ave from the corner of her eye. She caught sight of Barengar, nodding to him with a grin and a shrug.

Asher Rukoth: "All right. That's it, do what you wish til the time comes."

Barengar Armsbreaker glances over at Shana as she offers her greeting, a stiff grunt and slow tip of his head in return.

Barengar Armsbreaker rolls his left shoulder back as glances toward the stairs, "Figurin' this'll be interestin' ..."

Shana Deftarm nodded. "We'll see... "

----------------------------

Asher Rukoth smirked. "Seems you all like the prospect of swimming in gil if not the chance to bloody the nose of folk that deserve it. To go over one thing as we walk," he stared, gesturing to the dock. "We'll each be given parachutes in case shite goes terribly wrong, and for those unfortunate souls that aren't capable of jumping like us noble dragoons." He pressed a hand to his chest.

Dominique La'fleur rolled her eyes, making a gagging sound. "It's not all it's cracked up to be."

Tarasa Blaetwyn: "Don't need to be able to jump when you can glide by manipulating aether."

Asher Rukoth blinked at Tarasa. "That's...pretty cool."

Barengar Armsbreaker glanced over to Asher as he spoke, a flat expression upon his features. The man simply grunts quietly in response as he finds a place to wait for further instructions.

Shana Deftarm shrugged, grinning like a fool. "Some of us don't really like jumping around like we've been stung by bees, but the concern is appreciated. Bt you dragoons, keep jumping up after the dragons by all means."

Ariuq Adarkim flipped a few pages in one of the tomes he carried, scaled brow furrowing as he read over the passage. At the sound of Asher's voice the Au Ra looked up with a nod, the book closed placed with a few others in a bag slung about his waist. "You may also buffer your descent at the last moment with Aether, or so I am told. It is...incredible painful but not more so than simply dying on the spot."

Adun Blackblade: "How long did Asher serve, exactly? He acts like a private." Adun glaned at Neeka with a small frown.

Asher Rukoth arched a brow at Adun, unamused.

Dominique La'fleur shrugged at Adun "They're all the same in Ishgard." She grinned "Part of the reason I never officially served." Looking over her shoulder she tossed at wink at Asher.

Adun Blackblade: "Seems someone missed the core day one lesson of respect. It's earned and should be given. Funny how you practice it better."

Kiera Hawkeye: "Barenger Armsbreaker....Good to see you're still alive and kickin'."

Barengar Armsbreaker slowly shifts his attention to Kiera, his head dipping toward the woman in greeting. A low grunt was soon to follow, "An' yerself Hawkeye."

Asher Rukoth rolled his eyes, not bothering to comment on Adun for being hypocritical. "All right, as everyone's finally here, lets get to it."

Dominique La'fleur nudged Adun in the sides "Seems to me you also missed out on the lesson of knowing when to remain silent." She snickered.

From the docks the skies could already be seen preparing; clouds gathering and growing dark, the zephyrs whipping by sharp. What was already cold became that much more, layers of frost filling the cracks of stone and forming over armored souls that stood guard, halberds at the ready for all the signs of the storm to comes, it seemed electricity already filled the air. From the breaths taken and released to chill behind visored helms, to the way soldiers gripped weapons and merely /stood/ one could tell. Yet there were none more lively looking than the handsome, smiling Elezen clothed in smart uniform that waited at the bridge to sleek warship with arms crossed behind his back.

Glancing to each in turn, he finally swept a hand forward to place upon his heart and bow deeply in greeting before righting himself and brushing blond ponytail that had fallen over shoulder back.

“I am Captain Reynard Faucon of the Harrier, and tis my utmost pleasure to shepherd you into, hopefully, the first battle of many against the Garlean Empire. I know Lord de Malveaux here, but if you would be so kind...?"

Kiera Hawkeye huffed a little laugh, nodding back. "Been a while since anyone's called me by jus' my last name. Feelin' 'bit better 'bout this now that I know that you're comin' along."

Adun Blackblade: "Don't become one of those girlfriends." He glanced to the unknown figure, letting everyone else handle logistics. He's just punch where he was directed.

Barengar Armsbreaker snorted quietly, a touch amused before dipping his head once more in acknowledgement, "I ain't 'bout ta complain 'bout 'avin' yerself on the field."

Dominique La'fleur let out a howl of laughter, grin widening only further. "Lord Malveaux." Tears were in her eyes as she laughed before suddenly going still at Adun's words. "Watch yourself Blackblade." A hand shot out, attempting to punch his shoulder before looking back to the Captain. "Name's Neeka, pleasure to meet you Captain." The words came with a half salute.

Ariuq Adarkim gave a curt bow at the waist to the Elezen, the bass tones of his voice barely audible over the sound of the wind. "Ariuq Adarkim. A pleasure." The Xaela moved to stand next to Tarasa, a breath huffing from his lungs as he folded his arms over his chest.

Kiera Hawkeye reached over, giving Barenger a pat on the arm before turning to the Captain. "Kiera Hawkeye. Good to be here to deal a blow to the godsdamned Garleans."

Barengar Armsbreaker simply gave the captain a stiff nod and a surly grunt.

Tarasa Blaetwyn looks over to Ariuq before looking over to the captain. "Tarasa Blaetwyn.'

Adun Blackblade grinned at Neeka jabbed him but remained silent.

Shana Deftarm watched the unfamiliar officers, folding her arms with a shrug. She didn't seem too keen on speaking.

Ragi'zi Jiube pressed the blunt end of his thaumaturge staff into ground and clutched it in both hands, leaning somewhat into it and watching attentive yet silent.

Not bothering to wait for the introductions, Asher strode over bridge to board ship, his own repsonse a snort. || Reynard grinned wide, laughter meeting Neeka's. Barely a glance was spared to the dragoon moving by, attention firmly placed on the group. "You will find the ship bare of what might be considered comfortable accomodations, but I believe it should suffice for all of you. And I must admit myself, Lady Hawkeye that it is a nice change of pace being backed by Ishgard instead of having to sting at the foreigners as mere pirates."

"Now come. We must be off to join the rest of the fleet for time is still of the essence.” Turning on heel, Reynard swiftly crossed the platform, expecting the Blades to follow with the halberdiers following shortly after.

Dominique La'fleur had a smug look on her face at the Captain's laughter, her elbow shot out to nudge Adun in the side before walking towards the platform - over and onto the ship.

Ariuq Adarkim looked up to Tarasa, a smile tugging the corners of his lips upwards. "It is good to see you again, Tarasa. You have kept yourself well I hope?"

Adun Blackblade followed behind Neeka with a crooked smile as she nudged him.

Barengar Armsbreaker followed behind the captain as he boarded the vessel; taking the hint. The man idly rolled his left shoulder back several times.

Shana Deftarm snorted, shaking her head. "Oh, no cushions with which to seat ourselves. I may never recover," she said with a chuckle. She followed everyone up onto the boat.

Kiera Hawkeye chuckled at Shana's comment. "Maybe find a nice lap to sit on instead, yeah?"

Tarasa Blaetwyn nodded slowly to Ariuq. "I have been well enough, I trust time has treated you well."

"Apologies fair lady, but it was at the behest of the man calling himself 'Admiral.' I can assure you many of the other Captains grumbled as well, having to rid quarters of maps, wine, all those nice things," Reynard jested. "You'll have to ask one of your companions however, as my own lads have their hands full."

What was called a fleet held true to the description as the Harrier arrived at the rally point. Eight true vessels filled the scene, warships the size of brigs along with a pair of enclosed  transports, accompanied by dozens more mana cutters. Upon closer inspection as the Harrier joined the line, it could be seen that all were armed to the teeth, cannon barrels pointing out from the sides.

The rain started falling just as the signal flags were raised across the decks of each ship, and hard at that. From the helm, Reynards voice boomed- “Equip your ‘chutes and get yourselves tethered now boys and girls! We don’t slow down for anything, and I needn’t the hassle of explaining why my charges slipped off the deck and fell to their deaths afore things really got shaky!”

Crewmen rushed back and forth with belts about their waists that had lines connecting to railings and other hooks in strategic positions to keep them from falling over the edge. Some were even seen to be donning coats and the likes before they began preparing the six batteries that made their ship so deadly; two to both port and starboard with another pair, recent additions, along the helm.

Dominique La'fleur rolled her eyes at the mention of parachutes, one hand held onto the railing to keep herself steady. "We just about there Captain? Much as your generosity is appreciated, I'd like off this ship...preferably with some sad sap on the end of my spear."

Adun Blackblade glanced at the bag that housed the parachute, his lips curled into a frown. He equipped it anyway and just waited for further instruction.

Barengar Armsbreaker wasn't terribly excited to be working with equipment foreign to him. He understood the necessity of the parachute that'd been strapped to him, he wasn't keen on falling to his death, but it was less than familair. As he quietly milled about on deck, doing his best to keep out of the crew's way, he gazed out over the railing to watch the other sheeps in the fleet.

Ariuq Adarkim let a slow laugh fall from his lungs as he began to strap the parachute around him as was bade. "Time has been...well, it certainly has been. It was not all terrible, of course, and there was much to be learned. For now, I am alive and happy to answer the call of mending for the patrons that have been kind enough to offer me lodging." He paused before continuing. "Ah...when last we spoke we compared notes upon aetherical manipulation, yes? Might you be willing to do the same again?"

Kiera Hawkeye looked a little unceratin as she equipped her parachute. She had only used something like it once, and hoped that she hadn't forgotten how to operate it. She stayed near the back of the ship, gripping the railing tight as she looked over the fleet. There certainly were more ships than she thought there would be.

"Fifteen minutes dearie, an eternity I know! But just think, the anticipation will only make the fight all the more lovely when it is upon us," his voice respnded, cutting through the winds that sent his hair flying wild behind him.

Tarasa Blaetwyn helped Ariuq fasten his parachute on. "That was long ago, I am suprised you remember our conversation. I would be willing to do so again as last time was enjoyable." It took a moment to find a harness that would fit but once found she slid on her own parachute.

Shana Deftarm tugged the parachute on, making sure the straps were tight. She was all but glued to the railings, looking out at the clouds with a bright smile. "Different when its not on griffon back, huh?" Shana called out to Adun, turning to look over.

Adun Blackblade grinned over at Shana. "At least this ships don't have feelings like those moody beasts."

After what must have seemed like an age for waiting warriors, the landmass that was their destination finally came into view, the spires thing to be seen.  Above it, stationary, floated the Gunships that were the staple of the Garlean people and below. Just as they had seen however, so too had they /been/ seen. Beyond, an alarm blared to life stirring the beasts that dwelt therein, red lights colouring the blackened sky.

While the fleet moved to engage gunships, manacutters darting ahead of the group to meet the juggernauts swarming towards them, the Harrier remained behind with the troop transports until the battle was well under way as discerned by the challenging flash of discharged weapons and the sounds that carried across a sky already wracked with lightning and thunder. Rhalgr it seemed, was pleased. The however, was not. They were tense, shivering. A handful more seconds passed before the Harrier started speeding forward.

Asher smiled,eyes alight and half hidden behind his helmet. He stamped his spear and rolled shoulder, the ‘chute more a nuisance than anything given his profession, he called the Blades to attention. “Remember the plan and do your best to stick with it. Regroup after touching down, kill whoever’s near if you’re unlucky, then head for the artillery and don’t stop. You’ve all got flares, use ‘em once it’s clear to signal the mop up crews.”

Shana Deftarm was still busy looking out at the angry clouds, grinning like a fool. She blinked, hearing the cracks of all too familiar gunfire and ducking instantly out of habit. Looks like it was time to start working, the bullets whizzing overhead.

Barengar Armsbreaker 's attention snapped in the direction of flash of light that originated from one of the gunships. He was immediately on alert and getting himself behind what he thought would serve as some sort of cover.

Kiera Hawkeye gaze took her towards the Garlean airships. She saw the muzzle flashed from the enemy ships. "Incoming!" She shouted, crouching low, arm over her head.

Ragi'zi Jiube caught sight of the muzzle flash just in time to know the way the wind was blowing, that battle was to be joined. The miqo'te stood his ground, pressing his staff into the airship's hull where he stood and conjuring up a small physical barrier in front of himself to absorb incoming fire.

Dominique La'fleur ‘s eyes narrowed as she noticed a flash of light in the distance, her head cocked to the side as she tried to determine exactly where it was coming from with both hands now resting on the railing of the ship. What she wasn’t expecting was the ship being jerked around so quickly or violently. The redhead was thrusted forward, her forehead slammed against the railing. “What the fuck!” She screamed before grimacing - that was going to leave a mark.

Adun Blackblade didn't flinch when he heard gunfire. In fact, he felt like he was back home. It was almost cathartic in that strange Adun way. Though, it did sink in that they were the ones being shot -at-and he moved to take some sort of cover so he didn't die.

Asher Rukoth cursed as he threw himself down a knee and brought up his arm to cover face, knowing that any larger movement was to great a risk on the speeding warship. Splinters tore along the side, smashing into his armor and he was thrust back roughly into the railing with bruising force that made the wood creak.

Ariuq Adarkim smiled up to Tarasa as she helped him fasten the harness. "Ah, my thanks, Tarasa. And I am glad to hear you would be willing to continue our res-" The Xaela's words are overshadowed by the cacophony of firing gunships, their shot hitting home upon their own vessel. Several small bits of shrapnel collide with Ariuq as he is sent tumbling backwards from the impact, his lithe figure sliding across the deck before he manages to find his feet once more.

Tarasa Blaetwyn didn't even really react as she was in mid conversation when that rude shot hit the ship causing the large woman to topple over and take a few chunks of metal shrapnel from the ship sunk into one of her thighs.

Thunder cracked, and it was the sound that masked the screaming of incoming projectiles. They tore up wood and sprayed its splinters along with the blood of those unfortunate enough to be caught by the blast and the ship groaned then, as Reynard pulled hard to avoid the next. “Jump! Jump as soon as you see a clear spot, and don’t stop!”

Shana Deftarm stumbled for the edge of the ship, hesitating just a moment as she looked over the side. She wasn't grinning anymore, scowling before she hurled herself off the side. She pulled at the ripcord, though not quite soon enough and hit the ground harder than she should have. She groaned, forcing herself to her feet. "Griffon... next time. Better, ugh."

Barengar Armsbreaker didn't hesitate when instructions came to jump. He rushed over to the edge of the deck when it seemed that there was a break in the gunfire and glanced over, scanning the darkness below for what he could make out of the terrain. He didn't make a clear judgement, so he simply picked a spot that -seemed- workable. As he thought himself over he managed to use the parachute to keep himself from descending at a freefall ... but that's about it. He came down hard and fast, tumbling for a few feet.

Kiera Hawkeye hesitated for a moment, staring down. They sure were high up. She vaulted off the side of the ship, rolling sideways before she extended her arms and legs, slowing herself down. She squinted her eyes against the rain and wind, looking to the sides to see when her companions were deploying their chutes. She pulled hers when everyone else was, taking a hold of the strings tightly, guiding herself to land on the island below. She took off her chute, drawing her sword and shield, moving to group up.

Ragi'zi Jiube raised his staff from the hull, his shield and the runes coalescing around him all at once dispersing, and heeding the advice of Reynard he leapt from the vessel, only to land less than gracefully and removed his chute. Shortly after he was nursing his wounds waiting for the regroup.

Dominique La'fleur: “To hells with this.” Neeka growled before bracing herself with the side of the ship and swinging herself over it. What the dragoon forgot was that she hadn’t charged her crystal just yet, this landing was going to hurt. While midair she unstrapped her lance and positioned herself with perfect form, the crystal starting to glow and wisps of blue aether trailing around her. It wasn’t enough, the redhead crashed into the ground harder than expected.

Adun Blackblade jumped off the ship after Neeka and admittedly had never used a giant piece of cloth as a landing device. So that meant he had no idea how to use it or utilize it to slow down enough for him to land.  Upon landing he stumbled pretty hard right onto his face.

Asher Rukoth growled. Clearing vision and focusing on the edge of the boat, he rose and darted forwards, feet stamping along wood until he left the deck entirely in a great leap. Spinning in air and then righting himself, his landing caused mud to shoot up every which way.

Ariuq Adarkim righted himself with a small groan, his right hand rising to press against his bleeding left shoulder where the shrapnel had hit him earlier. The Xaela's voice was flat as he spoke out, his body moving to the edge of this ship to follow the captain's orders. "Ah...hm. Is this not simply poetic upon my return to Eorzea..." Only a single glance downward was given before the Au Ra lept from the side of the ship. He pulled the cord upon his parachute to allow him to drift slowly downward while his free hand traced patterns through the air, the Aether around him hardening to prevent any stray fire from prematurely ending his safe journey to the ground.

Tarasa Blaetwyn rolled off the side of the ship and pulled her parachute around half way down to the ground and used some of her magical ability to slow her decent so she could land properly with a wounded leg and quickly join the rest of the group now on the ground. "Nice fall Neeka, perhaps you should use a parachute next time."

The Harrier rose and climbed through the air after dropping its payload, and the Garleans below could only stand gobsmacked as it tried to escape after seeing it so near to them. It seemed they had done it too, only to light up a split second before exploding as a well placed round tore tore up and into its midsection, the Garleans escorting Vanguard all but missed the drop of the Blades into muddied earth. A handful of them recovered quickly to discharge firearms at Shana, Ariuq, Kiera and Tarasa which prompted the rest who carried but sword, shield and spear to charge forward to meet Neeka, Asher and Ragi. The vanguard, however, charged at Adun and Barry.

Barengar Armsbreaker managed to detangle himself from his ripped and torn parachute, hearing the rushing of feet and the heavy stomping of a vanguard. He didn't waste any time in pulling his weapon from from it's place upon his back and rushing toward the large magitek weapon, taking a swing at a joint upon its leg.

Kiera Hawkeye quickly brought her shield up, crouching low, listening to the ping of bullets glancing off. She quickly stood up and charged at one of the riflemen, shouting a fierce war cry as she did. When she closed the gap she swung at one of the riflemen, hoping to either kill them or disable them.

Ragi'zi Jiube fought off the sore nagging of his wounded leg from the fall to right himself and raise his staff overhead, which he waved in a rhythmic circle. Aether coalesced upon the business end of the instrument, twisting into a wreath of oscillating flame around the staff's head. Before long Jiube loosed his spell, an explosion of magic fire engulfing and searing the charging combatants.

Dominique La'fleur shot Tara a look that perfectly matched the ‘if looks could kill.’ saying before her focus shifted to the wave of soldiers running in her direction. Her eyes narrowed at one wielding a spear, her own lance flipping in her hand to an offensive stance. They both charged at the same time, spears colliding with a violent clash. Neeka instinctively jumped back to get her bearings before deciding what her next move would be.

Shana Deftarm was still getting her bearings, staggering to her feet with a grimace. She looked up too late, catching a bullet in the arm as she grabbed for her lance. Just like home, one could say.

Adun Blackblade pushed himself to his feet, with a grunt. As he pulled the parachute from his person, he heard the familiar movements of the vanguard magiteks. Glancing up through his mask, aether flared up brightly around him as he unlocked a chakra and armed his fists. Shooting forward in a hugely aetherically charged tackle, he crashed into the mech  and aimed a fire aspected strike right near one of its leg joints to attempt to hamper its movement.

Asher Rukoth snapping gaze up form the ground, Asher spotted the screaming garlean as it came to face him. Not wasting any time, he adjusted he hold on the weapon and launched it forward to impale the mans, knocking him off his feet and into the earth with a wet squelch.

Ariuq Adarkim landed softly upon the ground, his movements deliberate as he freed himself from the harness around his chest and waist. An almost annoyed glance was paid to his injured shoulder as he placed the flat of his palm over the wound. Thin lines of light-blue Aether seem to unfurl from his fingertips and begin to mend the marred flesh, the shot from the Garlean simply colliding mid-air with the barrier the Xaela had erected earlier. His chin dipped into a small nod once he was fully healed, the same wires of energy still clinging to the tips of his fingers as he pulled his hand away. One of the aetherical strands extended out to dip into the bag of tomes at the Au Ra’s side, a thick volume pulled out from the satchel and brought to hover in front of the man. Eyes flicked from the battlefield to the page, his left hand flipping through the book while his right brushed over his garments. “Hm. It has been some time indeed.”

Tarasa Blaetwyn kneeled down as a few bullets wizzed overhead and pulled up her robe to expose that sexy thigh and began to chant slowly. She wasn't the best healer, but she could do some mending magics. She directed the aether into said leg which was able to stop the bleeding and ease the pain.

Reloading their weapons, the gunmen took aim once more while their counterparts were stumbled back, bloodied save the one Asher had killed. Far from being stricken with terror however, they pressed the attack like true soldiers would. Fire spit out the ends of rifles as another round streaked towards Ariuq, Tarasa and Asher. The Vanguard's machinery whined in protest to the blows before attacking again while the warriors in close quarters truck back at Kiera and Neeka.

Barengar Armsbreaker grunted as his axe struck home upon the vanguard's leg. The Ala Mhigan ducked low as one of the machine's arms came swinging for him. Once he was clear he rushed between its legs and took his axe to the same joint on the opposite leg as before, aiming to immobilize the contraption.

Shana Deftarm wasn't quite thinking clearly; all she saw was Garleans in front of her that needed to be put down. She surged forward, bringing her lance forward to bear on one of the gunmen. Unaccustomed to the terrain, she missed and caught a bayonet across the arm for her trouble.

So busy was Jiube with the process of extricating himself from his deployed chute's harness that he could offer no suitable assistance to his allies nor presence in the battle.

Kiera Hawkeye lifted her shield, deflecting the blows coming her way. She still clashed with the Garleans she was engaged with, determined to not be the one to fall to ground dead.

Dominique La'fleur seemed entranced by the magitek equipment the various soldiers wielded, which of course distracted her focus from the spear coming in her direction. The weapon tore through the shoulder of her red armored coat, luckily she was fast enough to dip low - stopping weapon from actually piercing skin. “I’m going to strip you naked and sell everything you’re wearin’ to pay for that.” She snarled.

Adun Blackblade glanced at Barry as he aided in attacking the Vanguard. At least they were both attacking the legs. In the moment he did take to glance away, the mech took the opportunity to swing at him, and the Fist just barely managed to duck out of the way and deliver another blow in the form of a kick at its leg once again.

Ariuq Adarkim moved to stand behind the rest of the Blades, glowing irises darting about the battlefield as both sides clashed. Without so much as a motion from the Au Ra, the tome floating beside him turned to intercept the bullet streaking out from the Garlean's firearm. The bullet was deflected upward, a flash of Aether surrounding the tome briefly before it moved back to its original position. One of the wires of Aether darted out to Tarasa, the energy working to mend her wounds as quick as it could.

Asher Rukoth jerked back, only just catching himself by thrusting his arm back into the ground behind him as the bullet tore through his unarmored shoulder. Snarling at the pain, he quickly stood up while drawing shortsword.

Tarasa Blaetwyn began to weave some leylines before a bullet wizzed into her shoulder and knocked her down onto her ass. She grit her teeth as Ariuq's tentacle found her and did help with the pain some. 2/5

The Vanguard began to steam, water hissing as it fell upon overheated metal and gear. Were it not a machine, doubtless the protest of its gears would be cries of pain and rage to fuel its counterattack; both drills drove forward with the intent to impale, whirring as they did. Hope seemed to fill the Garleans too as they continued onslaught upon Neeka and Shana with renewd vigor. One of the riflemen lowered gun as his companions shot at both Ariuq and Ragi to throw a grenade behind the Mythril fighting in close quarters, hoping to catch whoever was in the spray with shrapnel.

Barengar Armsbreaker grunted as his weapon refused to dislodge from the mech's body, getting jammed in the joint from the previous attack. WIth a surly growl, and a significant yank, he was able to pull it free. However the extra time it took for him to remove the weapon interrupted his cadence and he found himself the victim of the vanguard's metal arm as it crashed into his side. There was a pained snarl as the Ala Mhigan tumbled to the ground.

Shana Deftarm was smirking, finally close enough to the Garlean that was hellbent on poking her full of holes. She anchored herself, changing the grip on her lance and sweeping the bastard's legs out from under him.

Kiera Hawkeye cried out as she felt a sting in the back of her thigh, grenade shrapnel digging deep. It caused her step to faulter, but she still pressed on the attack, the wound a hindarance but not dibilitating.

Ragi'zi Jiube had only just righted himself for combat when not that instant did a Garlean round pierce his torso where his right arm was joint. Jiube offered the shooter a terrible and livid glare from his one good eye before he raised his staff again, and once more the aether began to coalesce at its end.

Dominique La'fleur‘s eyes flashed brightly as she set her sights on the spear wielding Garlean in front of her. The redhead charged forward, making an overly grand show of the action. At the last moment Neeka leaned back and kicked her feet out, sliding along the ground under the weapon thrust at her while - her own lance piercing the soldier’s thigh with enough force to draw blood. She was back on her feet within seconds, now standing behind her foe.

Adun Blackblade avoided another attack, opting not to test his strength against it. Dropping low, he swing his leg out to attempt to sweep the leg he was focusing on right from under the Vanguard.

Asher Rukoth shot off the ground, aided by aether flowing through him, to close distance with one of the gunners. As Shana felled the one, he drove his blade into the side of another to elicit a grunt of pain.

Ariuq Adarkim ducked slightly as a bullet flew above his head, breath hissing out from his lungs as his eyes turned to the rifleman that continually fired his direction. A frown dipped onto the Xaela’s features as he turned his attention back to the battle as a whole, Aether withdrawing from Tarasa to instead attend to Barengar’s injuries. The effervescent wire made contact with the Ala Mhigan and began to knit bone back together. (+2 hp)

Tarasa Blaetwyn was thankful for Ariuq's healing tentacle as it healed the bullet wound in her arm. She stood back up only to get blown back by the shockwave from a nearby grenade explosion. She managed to keep herself from going very far but was getting dizzy from all the repeated abuse. 3/5

Only one swordsman remained to clash with Kiera, too driven to realize that his companions had fallen through the thunder and fire of battle raging above while alarms still blared. The man that had thrown grenade pointed his gun towards Shana at last, while the one Asher impaled attemped to fight back. The unattended gunner then aimed his rifle at Ariuq to fire as pestering Vanguard swiped at Barry and Adun.

Barengar Armsbreaker took in several deep breaths as he felt the magic repair the damage that had been done to him, each breath testing the extent of the damage. He quickly pushed himself up to his feet just as a metallic arm passed overhead. Wasting no further time he pulled back a heavy swing and aimed for the same joint that Adun had been attacking. As soon as the leg gave out and the machine was forced to a kneel, Armsbreaker took another swing at the Vanguard's head with the hope of shattering sensitive equipment.

Tarasa Blaetwyn just kinda sits on her ass for a few moments and tries to gather her thoughts while her ears ring from that grenade.

Shana Deftarm turned at the wrong time, blinded a moment by the flash of the grenade as she hastily covered her eyes. She felt, rather than saw something striking at her, and all she could do was shake her head.

Kiera Hawkeye kicked out at her last remaining opponent, knocking him off balance. She yelled furiously as she thrust her sword out, feeling the sword find purchase. She withdrew her sword, turning to avoid seeing the man fall dead. She scanned the battlefield, seeing a couple more riflemen still standing. She charged the that had thrown the grenade, staying silent until she closed the distance.

Ragi'zi Jiube withdrew his spell, not wont for catching allies in the resulting explosion. The aether on his staff dispersed unceremoniously and he took to clutching his new wound to stifle the blood loss.

Dominique La'fleur used the time that eyes weren’t focused on her to let aether pool around her feet, suddenly the dragoon was airborne - twisting in the air and setting her sights on an unattended gunner. She crashed spear first into him, the metal of her weapon tearing into the back of his neck and down his spine. Neeka was quick to yank her weapon back, almost as if she was worried about it being taken from her right before she hopped back a short distance away.

Adun Blackblade straightened up when the stupid mech went down and rolled his shoulders back as he looked over the rest of the field. One obstacle down. Leaning his head to the side, he popped his neck once and blew out a soft, sharp breath.

Asher Rukoth withdrew his shortsword from his prey, and sweeping the mans legs out from under him with a kick, caught him by the neck to snap it. The body going limp in his hands, he clicked the blade to the side, cleaning it of blood while moving to reclaim polearm from the bloodied corpse of his first enemy.

Ariuq Adarkim began to move forward into the battle, the tome floating next to him repositioning itself with its pages in front of the Au Ra. Each of the bullets seem to hit a solid wall of invisible Aether in front of the mender as he moved closer to Adun, a thin strand of energy reaching out to begin to heal the Fist’s wounds. A few quick blinks lid over his eyes as the firearm finally silences, glowing irises looking over to where the Garlean used to be.

“You have my thanks, Lady Neeka. That incessant firing had begun to test the limits of the barrier I could create.”

Dominique La'fleur was apparently too busy nodding at Ariuq's thanks to notice much of anything. She shook some blood off her boot.

Barengar Armsbreaker grumbles quietly once he was sure that the vanguard was fully disabled by way of several extra swings into the part of the machine that appeared to serve as its head. The man then took a moment to survey the rest of the battlefield, scanning for any further threats to his comrades.

Shana Deftarm was blinking past the blindness, her ears ringing.

Ragi'zi Jiube reunited formally with the group, his staff in right hand and his wound in his left. "There are few die well that die in battle."

Kiera Hawkeye broke away from the fight, scanning around the battlefield again. She noticed the unmanned Reaper. She had no idea how to drive such a thing, but she tried to quickly make her way to it to at the very least capture it for their own use.

Ariuq Adarkim moved over to the Dragoon, a small smile spreading over his lips as the book lowered from the air to rest in the palm of his left hand. "Ah. Hm. Hold still for one moment, if you would." His right hand rose to rest overtop of the Highlander woman, the cords of Aether tending to her wounds before the Xaela nodded. "There, that should suffice."

Dominique La'fleur rose an eyebrow at Ariuq, her eyes watching his hand rise above her. "Er, thanks." She muttered as the pounding in her head became practically unexistent.

Asher Rukoth rolled his shoulder and winced, feeling discomfort to the point where he knew the bullet hadn't passed through. Loosing a harsh growl, he turned to his companions. "All right, if we're all alive we've just the-- Kiera the hells are you going," he hissed, only for his eyes to widen as she brought attention to the Reaper.

Tarasa Blaetwyn slowly stood up and hobbled over to a nearby rock and popped a squat next to it and ripped part of her robe off to make a bandage.

Dominique La'fleur quickly noticed Asher's reaction, which directed her attention towards Kiera and where she was heading to. "Oh no..." She brought gloved hands up to her face at the idea of where this was going to go.

Asher Rukoth smirked. "Should make things a hells of a lot easier. Now to find the bloody ridge."

Kiera Hawkeye sheathed her sword and shield when she finally reached the Reaper, climbing up into the cockpit. She looked at the controls, obviously confused.  She put her hands on the controls, pushing a coupe buttons on the console to try and activate it.

Ragi'zi Jiube: "The ridge is found," spoke Jiube to Asher, as he gestured thusly at what he had earlier seen.

Asher Rukoth snapped his attention to Ragi and nodded afore calling out to Kiera. "It's the giant glowing one lass! Push it and lets get this thing finished!" Glancing to the rest of the group he motioned for everyone to fall in. "Barengar you're with Adun and I up front, after Kiera on that Reaper. Everyone else stay sharp."

Barengar Armsbreaker glances toward Asher, nodding firmly as he moved in to stand beside Adun. His axe was at the ready.

Dominique La'fleur began to walk around the fallen enemies, her attention caught by Asher's words. Her eyes narrowed at the same time her lips pursed. She decided her version of staying sharp since she wasn't at the front was to look for any useful looking tech she could pocket.

Kiera Hawkeye push the button, gasping in surprise as the thing started up. She moved the controls, having it step forward and back, forward and back then one foot forward. She shouted at Asher. "If you know how to use this by all means come up here instead!"

Ariuq Adarkim moved over to Tarasa as she bandaged herself upon the rock. "Ah, if you would allow me, I might well be able to attend to your wound for you." The Xaela knelt down in the mud, his right hand giving a small shake as he began to channel Aether into the Roegadyn to try and mend her wounds. "You need not ruin your garments anymore than battle has done so already, hm?" A small chuckle fled the man as he worked over the injuries. (+2 HP to Tara)

Asher Rukoth looked back at Kiera and pursed his lips, not having wanted to steal the fun of using it from her. Another moment more, and he changed heading to get near and bid her switch.

As they marched towards goal it could be seen that guarding the ridge stood a small tower and gateway, and beside it a Garlean officer that held a hand to helmet, obviously speaking to someone. By /their/ side, was a Colossus, its crimson eyes blaring through the dark. Having far better vision than the mortal and noticing the group now,  it raised swordand pointed. Gone still, the Garlean drew sword and shouted something indecipherable before firing their gunblade whilst mechanical ally charged.

Barengar Armsbreaker didn't waste any time in making a charge for the colossus. Having no real cover to use from the gunfire, Barengar instead decided to use the bulk of the machine itself. He stuck close to the legs, hoping that they would serve to make him a difficult target for the footsoldier's gunblades. Approaching the attack much as he had before, Barengar pulled his weapon back and sought to delivier a crippling strike to the machine's right leg.

Ariuq Adarkim stops wholly as he is mending Tarasa, both of his eyes narrowing as his head seems to turn to some imperceptible flux in the air. Quickly the man stands and turns towards his comrades just in time to see the Colossus and officer begin to attack the Blades. With a dash the Au Ra moved towards the renewed battle, a rush of Aether springing out from his hand to try and mend Shana's wounds.

Shana Deftarm finally managed to clear her head, ears still ringing that. Maybe standing in a battlefield without any cover wasn't the best plan. She grimaced, getting peppered with gunfire before dropping to a knee. Not the best plan ever, to be sure.

Kiera Hawkeye patted Asher on the shoulder as she made room. "Good man. Thing's fuckin' terrifyin' ta use. I might've jus' blown us up instead!" She hopped out of the mech, drawing her sword and shield and started her way towards the ridge. Before she raised her shield she cried out, taking a bullet in the space between her gauntlet and chest piece on her left arm. She grimaced at the pain but still moved forward, determined to help end this.

Ragi'zi Jiube glared with apprehension at the metallic colossus, yet remained resolute enough that his staff once more became wreathed in aether. Volatile electricity raged on the staff's head and without warning of cause, lurched out in a flashing bolt to electrify the Colossus's systems.

Dominique La'fleur was much too busy randomly finding small pieces of personal magitek to notice what was going on. It wasn’t until the colossus had begun charging forward and a spray of bullets was directed towards the group that Neeka noticed there was yet -more- enemies. A look of irritation crossed her features as she dodged a stray bullet while twisting her weapon in her hand so that she could use it offensively.

Adun Blackblade blew out a soft breath before readying himself for the next wave of combat. Aether burst from his drawn weapons once more in a quick flash as he unlocked a chakra and charged towards the colossus. Once again, his target was the opposite leg than the one Barry attacked, seeking to aid in immobilizing it.

Asher Rukoth clambered up into the Reaper, cackling like some mad man as he did. Removing his helmet as the water was getting in the way, he set it to the side of control panel and only just looked up in time to see the Colossus. Too close at the moment for him to fire at without hurting his allies, he switched target to the Officer and opened fire with the cannon. A loud crack was heard, and then the poor bastard was flung farther back through the air.

Tarasa Blaetwyn was still a little dazed from the grenade but slowly gave Ariuq a nod as he once again gave her the good touch. The ringing slowly subsided and some color returned to her features as the sounds of combat once again filled the air ahead of them.

The colossus groaned, instantly falling to a knee as Barry's axe tore into something important and the metal covering its opposite leg folded inwards upon Adun's strike. Still, it struggled to regain its feet as machines didn't know how to quit and swung wide with its cleaver once again to catch those foolish enough to come in close. The officer though shaky managed to recover before pulling a cylinder from belt. Pressing down on the top, the grenade was then lobbed forward to hit the earth where the back of the group stood, detonating before Ragi, Ariuq and Tarasa.

Barengar Armsbreaker side stepped inbetween the colossi's legs as he ripped his weapon free of the tech that was housed beneath the thick metal plates of the colossi's body. Though he maanged to avoid the full bite of the machine's swing but wound up being backhanded by the titan's fist. The man stumbled backward a few steps before regaining his composure, wiping away a streak of blood that was draining from his mouth.

Shana Deftarm managed to shift herself out of the way, avoiding the flailing of the colossus. She wasn't too keen on getting hit again, darting forward to jam her lance into a hopefully important joint to atleast somewhat hobble its movements.

Kiera Hawkeye ducked under the collosus's blow, hearing the large sword woosh harmlessly through the air above her. Seeing that her compatriots were handling the collosus on her own, she turned her attention to the officer. She steeled herself, charging upward. She didn't have the breath for another yell, but her face was set in grim determiniation. She swung low at the officer's leg, hoping to knock him off balance.

Ragi'zi Jiube became agasp that his magic struck with little report, but not so struck with awe that he lacked the sense to dive for cover at the sight of the Garlean's familiar weapon. When the danger had passed without report on his own person, he climbed to his feet with difficulty, and his tunic became red when his wound began bleeding once more. Pain was visible in his one-eyed wince when he bent down to claim his staff once more.

Adun Blackblade slipped behind the leg of the Colossus as it readied to swipe, avoiding the attack on a whole. While he had it off guard, he opened yet another chakra. This time he drove a punch into the back of its weakening leg from the other side, fire aspected. Though, he wasn’t sure elements did much damage to it.

Asher Rukoth: "Ha, fucking /eat it/ Asher cried out, having seen the chunks of earth shoot up from the ground at his last attack. Charging the reaper again, he but spared a glance to his companions to see they had things well in hand afore firing again, right behind the officer this time as Kiera drove them back. Like he had hoped, they moved right into the spot he had hoped and thus were caught dead on by the shell to explode in a shower; unfortunately for Kiera, as limbs flew every which way.

Ariuq Adarkim turns suddenly as he watches the grenade soar overhead, eyes widening as his mind races. With no time to make a proper barrier, the Au Ra could only lift his hands to cover his face from the explosion. Some of the shrapnel tears into his arms, a hiss sounding out from the man at the pain. In an almost state of panic, healing energy is once more sent out from his palm, this time towards Ragi. It is only after several long breaths and a shake of his head that the Xaela is able to regain his composure, his eyes closing as he re-centers and once more coalesces the small wires of Aether around his right hand. As before, the tome at his side is lifted by one of the strands and held hovering at his side.

Tarasa Blaetwyn quickly put up an aether barrier as the incoming grenade bounced off of it and exploded shredding said barrier and sending the large woman flying back a few feet and hitting her head against a rock. "Nnn...fuck me.." she groaned rather loudly before slowly standing back up.

Sparks flew from the machine as gears and wires were severed through Barry's uncourteous removal of weapon while shuddering from the spear now lodged in its chest. Glaring down at Shana, it drove its arm to the side to try and catch Shana on the way to the blonde haired warrior right as Adun destroyed what remained of its leg. Ceruleum leaked from exposed lines, filling the air with noxious smell. In retribution, is attempted to bring down greatweapon upon the monk.

Barengar Armsbreaker rolled his shoulders back and recentered himself long enough to swing around and slam his weapon into the back of the colossi's opposite leg. Once he'd pulled his weapon free he moved to make some space between him and the machine. The last thing he wanted was to be standing around exposed ceruleum.

Shana Deftarm was caught, looking fairly smug at the spear she'd wedged in its chest. She looked up in time to see the arm coming down, catching her and tripping her up to knock her to the ground. It could have been worse, she could have been crushed.

Kiera Hawkeye was almost thrown to her back as the officer she charged suddenly exploded. She raised her hand, deflecting the blood and guts from her face, but it still covered her in dead officer. She looked behind her, seeing the collosus still alive and kicking. She looked around, seeing gunblade near her. She sheathed her sword, picking up the gunblade, having to hold it with two hands. She pulled the trigger, launching a grenade towards the collosus.

Dominique La'fleur clutched her spear as the colossus shifted to do whatever the hell it was doing, she was determined not to get thrown off of him. The redhead let loose a feral scream as she pushed her spear further into the machine, now angling it towards its center. Her weapon must have managed to hit something quite critical as quite promptly the Garlean construct went still. Her eyes went wide as she noticed the leaking ceruleum, the sight causing her to leap off instantly.

Adun Blackblade grinned at Neeka when she killed the colossus and lowered his arms. Shortly after, he scanned the rest of the area for any more surprise enemies.

Ariuq Adarkim pushes forward once more towards the front of the battle, stopping only to allow the swipe of the colossus to pass. The thin wires of Aether stretched out towards Shana and begin to stitch up her wounds, Ariuq coming to kneel beside the woman as he worked.

Tarasa Blaetwyn finished trying to bandage her arm, having taken quiet the beating in the back row this mission so far. She hobbled closer to the group as the fighting came to a close for the moment at least.

Caught by the stupid overwhelming bullshit power of the blades, the Colossus at last began breaking apart. Eyes flickered in the dim light, before finally falling dark as silent, hitting earth and sinking into its mud as Neeka removed spear and leapt back. With no one else in sight, the small barred gate to the section of land cordoned off for artillery remained. Beyond it, manning the batteries, were unarmed soldiers too busy taking what shots they could amidst the carnage as airships darted in and out, too close at times and too stealthy amidst sullen skies to be seen.

"Fire the flares," Asher called out to no one in particular after having blown the gate wide with the Reaper. Grabbing his spear from where it was stored, he advanced on the opened area. There was no remark made after, no call for help in dealing with the remaining garleans.

Kiera Hawkeye still held the gunblade in her hands. This was something she was keen on keeping around. She watched as Asher made his way to the artillery embankments, taking a flare gun off her belt and firing it into the air. She made her way back to the group. "Everyone all right?"

Ariuq Adarkim dusted his hands over his coat as he surveyed the battlefield, his book coming to rest in his palm as the aether retracted from his fingertips. Moving over to Kiera the Xaela rose an eyebrow at the gunblade. "Hm. Garlean weapons are always so fascinating, are they not? Please, hold still for a moment." The Xaela began to tend to the woman's wounds, aether passing over her injuries.

Dominique La'fleur pulled out her own flaregun, firing it high in the air to signal for their ride. She walked back over the machine once she was sure it wasn't going to explode and proceeded to kick a piece of it angrily. "I'm goin' fuckin' home."